The UK is experiencing its third heatwave of the year, with the Met Office forecasting temperatures reaching 34-35°C in southern England and Wales. Many homes, built to retain heat, become unbearably stuffy at night, making sleep difficult. A sleep specialist has shared a simple DIY air conditioning hack using just a fan and ice cubes that can cool a bedroom in 20 minutes.
DIY Air Con Hack: Fan and Ice Cubes
Dr Nerina Ramlakhan, a sleep specialist and neurophysiologist at Oak Tree Mobility, recommends placing a tray of ice in front of a fan to create a makeshift air conditioner. “Position the fan so it blows over the tray; as the ice melts, the room cools down,” she explained. “Do this for 20 minutes before bed to help cool your bedroom.”
The optimum sleeping temperature is 16-18°C, but with current heatwave conditions, that may be hard to achieve. This method provides a quick, low-cost solution to lower the room temperature.
Additional Cooling Tips
Dr Ramlakhan also suggests opening windows when the outside air is cooler than inside, typically early morning and late at night, to allow air circulation. If the bedroom is upstairs, consider sleeping on a lower floor as heat rises. Pointing a fan outwards can push hot air out of the room.
During the day, keep curtains and blinds shut to block sunlight. Switch bedding to breathable natural fibres like cotton or linen, and avoid using the oven for cooking to reduce indoor heat.
UK Heatwave Context
The Met Office has warned of high to very high UV levels across much of the UK. While southern areas bake in 34-35°C heat, the far northwest will see more clouds and occasional rain. The hot, dry, and calm weather is expected to persist.
Dr Ramlakhan emphasised the importance of cooling both the environment and the body for restful sleep. “Not being able to fall asleep in the heat can be incredibly frustrating,” she said. “These steps can help you achieve a more comfortable sleeping environment.”
